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Cases of Covid are rising in many countries including the United States and India. Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged countries in the Southeast Asia region to strengthen surveillance and for people to take protective measures given the increasing numbers of cases of respiratory diseases including due to Covid.

Cases of Covid are rising in many countries including the United States and India. Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged countries in the Southeast Asia region to strengthen surveillance and for people to take protective measures given the increasing numbers of cases of respiratory diseases including due to Covid. The recently detected sub-variant JN.1 has sparked health concerns globally. The WHO had classified JN.1 as a variant of interest and said current evidence showed the risk to public health was low from the strain. Till now, India has recorded over 500 cases of the variant. In the US, JN.1 has become the new dominant variant, a report by The Washington Post on Thursday (Jan 4) said. Here's a look at the top updates on the virus: > The total number of active Covid cases in India has climbed to 4,423, the health ministry's bulletin on Thursday showed. In the last 24 hours, India recorded 760 fresh cases, two deaths and 775 recoveries. The number of daily cases had dropped to double-digits till December 5, but cases have again gone up after the emergence of Jn.1 and cold weather conditions. > In the US, hospitals in at least four states reinstated mask mandates amid a rise in cases of Covid, seasonal flu and other respiratory illnesses. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday, hospitals in New York, California, Illinois and Massachusetts made masks mandatory among patients and providers. Recent weekly data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that there were more than 29,000 hospitalisations from Covid across the country from Dec 17-23 last year, up more than 16% from the previous week. Also read: Mask mandate reinstated in New York City hospitals as COVID-19 cases rise > On Thursday, China's aviation regulator said that it expected the number of international flights to and from the country to reach 6,000 per week by the end of this year, or about 80% of pre-Covid levels. In a statement, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said that for the year ahead, it would continue to promote a "significant" increase in direct flights between China and the US from 63 flights presently. Also read: People with long Covid shouldn't undertake intense exercise, says study > A recent study suggested that people with long Covid should not undertake intense exercise as it damages their muscles and worsens metabolism. "A distinctive symptom of patients with long Covid is post-exertional malaise, which is associated with a worsening of fatigue- and pain-related symptoms after acute mental or physical exercise, but its underlying pathophysiology is unclear," the study, published in the journal Nature Communications on Thursday said. > Nepal is all set to destroy four million doses of the Sinovac Covid vaccine, which were procured from China in 2021. The destruction had been necessitated on the recommendation of the vaccine advisory committee which said the China-made vaccine is not fit for use as a booster dose as well as a regular dose. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: India's active cases over 4,400; mask mandates return at some US hospitals

Atlantic storm ravages Northwestern Europe, triggering flooding. Watch the video to know more.

Atlantic storm ravages Northwestern Europe, triggering flooding

Iran blamed Israel and the United States on Wednesday for twin bomb blasts that killed at least 95 people in the country's south, ripping through a crowd commemorating Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani four years after his death in a US strike.

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A 43-year-old Indian-origin man was awarded a jail term of nine months in the United Kingdom for masturbating in front of a woman on a London Underground train.

Identified as Mukesh Shah from Wembley in north London, the 43-year-old boarded the train at around 11:40 pm when the victim was travelling in an empty Piccadilly Line carriage between Sudbury Town and Acton Town.

He then sat diagonally opposite the woman, who noticed him staring at her before he exposed his genitals and started masturbating.&nbsp;

Shah's indecent act was captured by the victim who later reported the incident to British Transport Police (BTP) along with that video.

“This was a frightening and upsetting experience for the victim and I commend her bravery in confronting the offender, managing to capture an image of Shah and reporting this,” said BTP Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Mark Luker.

“Shah's disgusting actions have not only secured him time behind bars but restrictions following his release to prevent him from repeating his actions in the future. We will always take reports of sexual offences seriously and will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice," he said.

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The British Transport Police (BTP) said that Shah will be subjected to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order over the incident, which took place on Nov 4, 2022.

“Despite the empty carriage, Shah sat diagonally opposite the victim and she noticed him staring at her, making her feel uncomfortable. It was then that she noticed he was exposing himself and masturbating,” BTP said in a statement.

“Bravely, the victim captured Shah on camera hoping it would deter him, when he didn't, she confronted him and told him to stop and move away from her. He protested he hadn't done anything wrong but moved along the carriage. The victim reported the incident to BTP along with the video, which was circulated within the police and led to the identification of Shah,” it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 43-year-old Indian-origin man was awarded a jail term of nine months in the United Kingdom for masturbating in front of a woman on a London Underground train. Identified as Mukesh Shah from Wembley in north London, the 43-year-old boarded the train at around 11:40 pm when the victim was travelling in an empty Piccadilly Line carriage between Sudbury Town and Acton Town.

A 43-year-old Indian-origin man was awarded a jail term of nine months in the United Kingdom for masturbating in front of a woman on a London Underground train. Identified as Mukesh Shah from Wembley in north London, the 43-year-old boarded the train at around 11:40 pm when the victim was travelling in an empty Piccadilly Line carriage between Sudbury Town and Acton Town. He then sat diagonally opposite the woman, who noticed him staring at her before he exposed his genitals and started masturbating. Shah's indecent act was captured by the victim who later reported the incident to British Transport Police (BTP) along with that video. “This was a frightening and upsetting experience for the victim and I commend her bravery in confronting the offender, managing to capture an image of Shah and reporting this,” said BTP Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Mark Luker. “Shah's disgusting actions have not only secured him time behind bars but restrictions following his release to prevent him from repeating his actions in the future. We will always take reports of sexual offences seriously and will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice," he said. Also read: Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates The British Transport Police (BTP) said that Shah will be subjected to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order over the incident, which took place on Nov 4, 2022. “Despite the empty carriage, Shah sat diagonally opposite the victim and she noticed him staring at her, making her feel uncomfortable. It was then that she noticed he was exposing himself and masturbating,” BTP said in a statement. “Bravely, the victim captured Shah on camera hoping it would deter him, when he didn't, she confronted him and told him to stop and move away from her. He protested he hadn't done anything wrong but moved along the carriage. The victim reported the incident to BTP along with the video, which was circulated within the police and led to the identification of Shah,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Indian-origin man gets 9 months in jail for masturbating in front of woman on London train

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media.&nbsp;

The orders were given by the North Korean leader as the country prepares for a “military showdown” with South Korea as well as the United States.&nbsp;

During his factory visit, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un said that increasing the production of missile launch vehicles is an important task for completing preparations for a “military showdown” with the enemy, reported the state media.&nbsp;

Kim, who was visiting a transporter erector launcher (TEL) manufacturing factory, said that the production of different vehicles for strategic and tactical weapons was an important task in bolstering the nuclear war deterrent of the country, reported KCNA news agency.&nbsp;

"Stressing that the factory's position and role are very important ... given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy, he indicated the tasks to be fulfilled by the factory," KCNA reported.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-north-korea-supplied-russia-with-missiles-for-ukraine-attacks-676691">US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks</a>

In the images released by the state media, Kim was seen touring the factory along with his young daughter Ju Ae in tow that produces transport erector launchers (TELs) which have been used in the banned intercontinental ballistic missiles of the country, before hailing a "dynamic drive for increased production" of the weapons.

Speaking to workers, Kim said that increasing TEL production capacity was important "given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy," said KCNA.

"He specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and the task of production capacity expansion" to strengthen the country's nuclear war deterrence, the report said.

<h2>White House says North Korea provides ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia</h2>

The report was published hours after the White House stated that Pyongyang had provided ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia which were used in the recent attacks carried out on cities in Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;South Korea, US hold firing drills near North Korea border

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-us-hold-firing-drills-near-north-korea-border-676580/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For months, Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing military equipment to Moscow in return for technical support provided by Russia to North Korea for advancing its military capabilities. However, North Korea has denied transferring arms to Moscow.

In a key party meeting last week, the country's military, nuclear weapons sector and munitions industry were ordered by Kim to accelerate war preparations, as the leader said that the policies of the United States have been making war inevitable.

"(Kim) specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and task of production capacity," reported KCNA.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media. The orders were given by the North Korean leader as the country prepares for a “military showdown” with South Korea as well as the United States.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media. The orders were given by the North Korean leader as the country prepares for a “military showdown” with South Korea as well as the United States. During his factory visit, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un said that increasing the production of missile launch vehicles is an important task for completing preparations for a “military showdown” with the enemy, reported the state media. Kim, who was visiting a transporter erector launcher (TEL) manufacturing factory, said that the production of different vehicles for strategic and tactical weapons was an important task in bolstering the nuclear war deterrent of the country, reported KCNA news agency. "Stressing that the factory's position and role are very important ... given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy, he indicated the tasks to be fulfilled by the factory," KCNA reported. Also read: US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks In the images released by the state media, Kim was seen touring the factory along with his young daughter Ju Ae in tow that produces transport erector launchers (TELs) which have been used in the banned intercontinental ballistic missiles of the country, before hailing a "dynamic drive for increased production" of the weapons. Speaking to workers, Kim said that increasing TEL production capacity was important "given the prevailing grave situation that requires the country to be more firmly prepared for a military showdown with the enemy," said KCNA. "He specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and the task of production capacity expansion" to strengthen the country's nuclear war deterrence, the report said. White House says North Korea provides ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia The report was published hours after the White House stated that Pyongyang had provided ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia which were used in the recent attacks carried out on cities in Ukraine. Watch: South Korea, US hold firing drills near North Korea border For months, Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing military equipment to Moscow in return for technical support provided by Russia to North Korea for advancing its military capabilities. However, North Korea has denied transferring arms to Moscow. In a key party meeting last week, the country's military, nuclear weapons sector and munitions industry were ordered by Kim to accelerate war preparations, as the leader said that the policies of the United States have been making war inevitable. "(Kim) specified the immediate plan for the production of varieties of TELs, long-term production plan and task of production capacity," reported KCNA. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames

New York on Thursday (Jan 4th) sued 17 bus companies for violating state law by transporting migrants from the southern US border to the city. The city is seeking $708 million via the lawsuit which has been filed in New York state court in Manhattan.

Reportedly, the companies have transported more than 33,000 migrants to New York City from Texas, as part of Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott's campaign to expel illegal migrants who cross into the US via the Mexico border.&nbsp;

<h2>A $708 million compensation</h2>

The city, as per Reuters, has accused the bus charters of violating a 19th century law that required anyone transporting "needy" people to New York to cover their expenses.

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NYC is seeking $708 million, which it says was the cost the city incurred to provide the 33,000 migrants shelter and services over the last two years.&nbsp;

In a statement, New York City said that it has "announced a lawsuit against 17 charter bus and transportation companies that seeks to recoup all costs New York City has incurred providing emergency shelter and services to migrants transported by the charter bus companies — totalling at least approximately $708 million in the last 20 months."

For more than two years, protesting against what he calls the national government's failings on immigration, Texas Governor Greg Abbot has sent newly arrived migrants from the border to New York and other Democratic-run cities.

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"Since the spring of 2022, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has admitted to facilitating the transport of more than 33,600 migrants to New York City without having the companies transporting those migrants pay for the cost of continued care in violation of New York's Social Services Law," said the city.

New York's Social Services Law, as per AFP, requires the big apple to provide shelter and care to anyone who requests it.

As per New York Mayor Eric Adams, "These companies have violated state law by not paying the cost of caring for these migrants, and that's why we are suing to recoup approximately $700 million already spent to care for migrants sent here in the last two years by Texas."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

New York on Thursday (Jan 4th) sued 17 bus companies for violating state law by transporting migrants from the southern US border to the city. The city is seeking $708 million via the lawsuit which has been filed in New York state court in Manhattan.

New York on Thursday (Jan 4th) sued 17 bus companies for violating state law by transporting migrants from the southern US border to the city. The city is seeking $708 million via the lawsuit which has been filed in New York state court in Manhattan. Reportedly, the companies have transported more than 33,000 migrants to New York City from Texas, as part of Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott's campaign to expel illegal migrants who cross into the US via the Mexico border. A $708 million compensation The city, as per Reuters, has accused the bus charters of violating a 19th century law that required anyone transporting "needy" people to New York to cover their expenses. Also read | Vatican moves to calm bishops over same-sex blessings approval NYC is seeking $708 million, which it says was the cost the city incurred to provide the 33,000 migrants shelter and services over the last two years. In a statement, New York City said that it has "announced a lawsuit against 17 charter bus and transportation companies that seeks to recoup all costs New York City has incurred providing emergency shelter and services to migrants transported by the charter bus companies — totalling at least approximately $708 million in the last 20 months." For more than two years, protesting against what he calls the national government's failings on immigration, Texas Governor Greg Abbot has sent newly arrived migrants from the border to New York and other Democratic-run cities. Also read | US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks "Since the spring of 2022, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has admitted to facilitating the transport of more than 33,600 migrants to New York City without having the companies transporting those migrants pay for the cost of continued care in violation of New York's Social Services Law," said the city. New York's Social Services Law, as per AFP, requires the big apple to provide shelter and care to anyone who requests it. As per New York Mayor Eric Adams, "These companies have violated state law by not paying the cost of caring for these migrants, and that's why we are suing to recoup approximately $700 million already spent to care for migrants sent here in the last two years by Texas." (With inputs from agencies)

New York sues 17 bus companies for transporting 33,000 illegal migrants to the city, seeks $708mn compensation

A Hindu temple, located in California's Hayward, has been vandalised with pro-Khalistan graffiti. The incident of vandalism took place weeks after anti-India graffiti appeared on the walls of the Swaminarayan temple in California's Newark.

Sharing a photo of the defacement, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) in a post wrote, "Another Bay Area Hindu temple attacked with pro-Khalistan graffiti. The Vijay's Sherawali Temple in Hayward, CA sustained a copycat defacement just two weeks after the Swaminarayan Mandir attack and one week after a theft at the Shiv Durga temple in the same area. HAF is in touch with temple leaders and in contact with the police."

The foundation said that it is also in contact with the Alameda Police Department and Civil Rights Division. The HAF emphasised the importance of installing alarm systems and security cameras in the wake of increasing threats from the Khalistanis.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Breaking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Breaking</a>: Another Bay Area Hindu temple attacked with pro-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Khalistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Khalistan</a> graffiti. 
 
The Vijay’s Sherawali Temple in Hayward, CA sustained a copycat defacement just two weeks after the Swaminarayan Mandir attack and one week after a theft at the Shiv Durga temple in the same area.… <a href="https://t.co/wPFMNcPKJJ">pic.twitter.com/wPFMNcPKJJ</a>
— Hindu American Foundation (@HinduAmerican) <a href="https://twitter.com/HinduAmerican/status/1743084055371870692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"We are once again encouraging all temple leaders to download the Hindu American temple safety guide... The guide specifically discusses that temple graffiti qualifies as a hate crime and also the importance of installing working security cameras and alarm systems in view of the rising threat from Khalistan proponents as well as the omnipresent risk from anti-Hindu actors," said HAF.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-temple-in-us-becomes-target-of-hate-crime-with-anti-india-slogans-672694">Hindu temple in US becomes target of 'hate crime' with anti-India slogans</a>

<h2>The Swaminarayan Temple incident</h2>

The Swaminarayan temple in Newark in December 2023 faced a similar attack when it was allegedly defaced by suspected pro-Khalistan activists, according to the police. The Hindu temple's exterior wall was defaced with anti-India graffiti.

An investigation into the incident of vandalism was started by the Newark Police Service.

"One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed," said Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration, while speaking to ANI.

The spokesperson added that the appearance of anti-Indian graffiti on its wall had left the temple authorities shocked. Police captain for the city of Newark, Jonathan Arguello, shedding more light on the incident, said that the "targeted act" was being investigated.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Hindu Temple vandalised again | Can US still preach the world?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hindu-temple-vandalised-again-can-us-still-preach-the-world-673513/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Based on the graffiti, we believe it was a targeted act, and it's going to be investigated with full thoroughness. I can also tell you that as a member of the Newark Police Department and the Newark community, we're deeply saddened when these types of acts occur, and we think they're senseless and they have no room. We won't tolerate them here in Newark. So today, I wanted to make sure that you understand how seriously we take these situations and know that we will investigate as thoroughly as possible with utmost care and sensitivity. I can also tell you that officers are currently investigating this via evidence collection," said the captain, while speaking to the reporters in a press conference.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had at the time reacted to the incident, saying that the consulate had complained about the matter.&nbsp;"I have seen the news. As you know, we are concerned about this. Extremists and separatist forces outside India should not get space. Our consulate has lodged a complaint with the (US) government and the police there over whatever happened, and I believe the matter is being inquired."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Hindu temple, located in California's Hayward, has been vandalised with pro-Khalistan graffiti. The incident of vandalism took place weeks after anti-India graffiti appeared on the walls of the Swaminarayan temple in California's Newark.

A Hindu temple, located in California's Hayward, has been vandalised with pro-Khalistan graffiti. The incident of vandalism took place weeks after anti-India graffiti appeared on the walls of the Swaminarayan temple in California's Newark. Sharing a photo of the defacement, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) in a post wrote, "Another Bay Area Hindu temple attacked with pro-Khalistan graffiti. The Vijay's Sherawali Temple in Hayward, CA sustained a copycat defacement just two weeks after the Swaminarayan Mandir attack and one week after a theft at the Shiv Durga temple in the same area. HAF is in touch with temple leaders and in contact with the police." The foundation said that it is also in contact with the Alameda Police Department and Civil Rights Division. The HAF emphasised the importance of installing alarm systems and security cameras in the wake of increasing threats from the Khalistanis. #Breaking: Another Bay Area Hindu temple attacked with pro-#Khalistan graffiti. The Vijay’s Sherawali Temple in Hayward, CA sustained a copycat defacement just two weeks after the Swaminarayan Mandir attack and one week after a theft at the Shiv Durga temple in the same area.… pic.twitter.com/wPFMNcPKJJ — Hindu American Foundation (@HinduAmerican) January 5, 2024 × "We are once again encouraging all temple leaders to download the Hindu American temple safety guide... The guide specifically discusses that temple graffiti qualifies as a hate crime and also the importance of installing working security cameras and alarm systems in view of the rising threat from Khalistan proponents as well as the omnipresent risk from anti-Hindu actors," said HAF. Also read: Hindu temple in US becomes target of 'hate crime' with anti-India slogans The Swaminarayan Temple incident The Swaminarayan temple in Newark in December 2023 faced a similar attack when it was allegedly defaced by suspected pro-Khalistan activists, according to the police. The Hindu temple's exterior wall was defaced with anti-India graffiti. An investigation into the incident of vandalism was started by the Newark Police Service. "One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed," said Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration, while speaking to ANI. The spokesperson added that the appearance of anti-Indian graffiti on its wall had left the temple authorities shocked. Police captain for the city of Newark, Jonathan Arguello, shedding more light on the incident, said that the "targeted act" was being investigated. Watch: Gravitas | Hindu Temple vandalised again | Can US still preach the world? "Based on the graffiti, we believe it was a targeted act, and it's going to be investigated with full thoroughness. I can also tell you that as a member of the Newark Police Department and the Newark community, we're deeply saddened when these types of acts occur, and we think they're senseless and they have no room. We won't tolerate them here in Newark. So today, I wanted to make sure that you understand how seriously we take these situations and know that we will investigate as thoroughly as possible with utmost care and sensitivity. I can also tell you that officers are currently investigating this via evidence collection," said the captain, while speaking to the reporters in a press conference. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had at the time reacted to the incident, saying that the consulate had complained about the matter. "I have seen the news. As you know, we are concerned about this. Extremists and separatist forces outside India should not get space. Our consulate has lodged a complaint with the (US) government and the police there over whatever happened, and I believe the matter is being inquired." (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-India graffiti surfaces at another California temple, defaced with Khalistani propaganda

On the day when thousands of Iranians gathered to commemorate the death anniversary of slain Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, a double explosion ensued chaos and devastation. Who was Qasem Soleimani and why did ISIS carry out a deadly attack on the day of his death anniversary?

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Here we bring you the latest updates from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas: - Israel wants war to continue - IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network - Hamas releases footage of fighting against Israeli military around Gaza City

Israel at War: IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network

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Ananya Dutta sits down with Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen as rigging allegations mount against the ruling government. Ambassador Momen also talks about relations with the US amid heavy criticism.

Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Momen speaks to WION as allegations mount against ruling government

Unsealed court documents regarding convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein were released on Thursday (Jan 4) which primarily focused on the recruitment of teen girls in his Florida home.

In the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which is soon to mark three months, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has proposed a post-war administration plan for the Gaza Strip, the besieged region that has seen casualties of thousands of Palestinians. WION is covering all the live updates from the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

In news from the US, a tragic gun shooting incident took place in Iowa state where a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader, leaving five others injured. The incident occurred at Perry High School on Thursday morning (Jan 4) local time, with four students and a school administrator among the injured.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-papers-underage-girls-were-recruited-to-be-exploited-for-massages-676728">Epstein papers: Underage girls were recruited to be exploited 'for massages'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/05/403739-untitled-design-2024-01-05t090810744.png?imwidth=256" />

The second batch of unsealed court documents related to convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein was released on &nbsp;Thursday (Jan 4) which mainly focused on how teen girls were recruited in his Florida home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-day-90-of-the-war-in-gaza-jan-5-676707">Israel-Hamas war LIVE: Israeli Defence Minister unveils post-war Gaza plans</a>

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The war in the Middle East will soon complete its&nbsp;three months. Ahead of that, Israeli&nbsp;Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has presented a plan for the post-war administration of the Gaza Strip, which stresses that the war will continue till&nbsp;Israel has secured the return of the hostages taken on October 7, dismantled Hamas's "military and governing capabilities", and removed any remaining military threats.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iowas-perry-high-school-shooting-17-year-old-killed-injuring-five-others-676704">Iowa high school shooting: Student kills sixth grader, injures five others</a>

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In an incident of a tragic gun shooting, a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader while five others were left injured in the US state of Iowa, media reports said. Among the injured were four students and a school administrator. The incident took place at Perry High School in the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 4) local time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-calls-for-more-production-of-missile-launchers-amid-us-south-korea-wargames-676745">Kim Jong Un calls for boost in weapon production amid US-South Korea wargames</a>

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-foreign-ministry-issues-warning-to-houthis-us-joe-biden-urges-to-strike-houthis-wion-676747">UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION</a>

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&nbsp;

Unsealed court documents regarding convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein were released on Thursday (Jan 4) which primarily focused on the recruitment of teen girls in his Florida home.

Unsealed court documents regarding convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein were released on Thursday (Jan 4) which primarily focused on the recruitment of teen girls in his Florida home. In the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which is soon to mark three months, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has proposed a post-war administration plan for the Gaza Strip, the besieged region that has seen casualties of thousands of Palestinians. WION is covering all the live updates from the Israel-Hamas war. In news from the US, a tragic gun shooting incident took place in Iowa state where a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader, leaving five others injured. The incident occurred at Perry High School on Thursday morning (Jan 4) local time, with four students and a school administrator among the injured. Epstein papers: Underage girls were recruited to be exploited 'for massages' The second batch of unsealed court documents related to convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein was released on Thursday (Jan 4) which mainly focused on how teen girls were recruited in his Florida home. Israel-Hamas war LIVE: Israeli Defence Minister unveils post-war Gaza plans The war in the Middle East will soon complete its three months. Ahead of that, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has presented a plan for the post-war administration of the Gaza Strip, which stresses that the war will continue till Israel has secured the return of the hostages taken on October 7, dismantled Hamas's "military and governing capabilities", and removed any remaining military threats. Iowa high school shooting: Student kills sixth grader, injures five others In an incident of a tragic gun shooting, a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader while five others were left injured in the US state of Iowa, media reports said. Among the injured were four students and a school administrator. The incident took place at Perry High School in the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 4) local time. Kim Jong Un calls for boost in weapon production amid US-South Korea wargames North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Friday (Jan 5) called for increasing the production of missile launchers while visiting a factory, said the state media. Watch | UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION ×

Morning news brief: Epstein papers say underage girls were recruited; Israel unveils post-war Gaza plans

A 17-year-old Dylan Butler unleashed shooting terror in a rural Iowa school on Thursday (Jan 4) morning, killing a sixth-grader and injuring five others, including the school's principal.&nbsp;

Butler, a student at Perry High School, attacked the school at 7:47 am (local time) armed with two firearms and a makeshift explosive device, according to reports in the local media. The attack unfolded on the first day back to class after winter break and thus caught students and faculty off guard.&nbsp;

Butler is believed to have acted alone. The 17-year-old turned the gun on himself and was reportedly killed by gunshot&nbsp;before law enforcement could get a hold of him.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iowas-perry-high-school-shooting-17-year-old-killed-injuring-five-others-676704">Iowa's Perry high school shooting: Sixth grader killed while five others injured</a>

Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante stated at a press conference that the attack occurred before the school's opening bell when "very few students and faculty" were present in the building.

<h2>Iowa school shooting incident: Dylan Butler's motive</h2>

Butler's motive remains unclear. However, a cryptic video posted on his now-deleted social media just moments before the rampage provides a chilling glimpse into the disturbed mind behind the violence.&nbsp;

The TikTok video, reported upon by the US media, showed Butler in a school bathroom stall with a blue duffle bag at his feet, which carried the caption: "Now we wait."&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Iowa School shooting: 1 killed, 5 injured in shooting at high school; suspect also dead

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The short video was reportedly set to the song "Stray Bullet" by the rock group KMFDM, featuring ominous lyrics such as "I’m your nightmare coming true, I am your worst enemy" and "Stray bullet, from the barrel of love."

The small town campus, housing both a middle school and high school, is located 40 miles northwest of Des Moines.

Investigators have also found other photos Butler posted posing with firearms, according to an official cited by the Associated Press.

Sisters Yesenia Roeder and Khamya Hall, both 17, said alongside their mother, Alita, that Butler was bullied relentlessly since elementary school.

Butler's sister too, it was reported, started getting picked on. His parents brought it up with the school. It remains unclear if the school acted upon parents' complaints over bullying.&nbsp;

"He was hurting. He got tired. He got tired of the bullying. He got tired of the harassment," Yesenia Roeder Hall, 17, told the Associated Press. "Was it a smart idea to shoot up the school? No. God, no."

(With inputs from agencies)

A 17-year-old Dylan Butler unleashed shooting terror in a rural Iowa school on Thursday (Jan 4) morning, killing a sixth-grader and injuring five others, including the school's principal.

A 17-year-old Dylan Butler unleashed shooting terror in a rural Iowa school on Thursday (Jan 4) morning, killing a sixth-grader and injuring five others, including the school's principal. Butler, a student at Perry High School, attacked the school at 7:47 am (local time) armed with two firearms and a makeshift explosive device, according to reports in the local media. The attack unfolded on the first day back to class after winter break and thus caught students and faculty off guard. Butler is believed to have acted alone. The 17-year-old turned the gun on himself and was reportedly killed by gunshot before law enforcement could get a hold of him. Also read | Iowa's Perry high school shooting: Sixth grader killed while five others injured Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante stated at a press conference that the attack occurred before the school's opening bell when "very few students and faculty" were present in the building. Iowa school shooting incident: Dylan Butler's motive Butler's motive remains unclear. However, a cryptic video posted on his now-deleted social media just moments before the rampage provides a chilling glimpse into the disturbed mind behind the violence. The TikTok video, reported upon by the US media, showed Butler in a school bathroom stall with a blue duffle bag at his feet, which carried the caption: "Now we wait." Also watch | Iowa School shooting: 1 killed, 5 injured in shooting at high school; suspect also dead × The short video was reportedly set to the song "Stray Bullet" by the rock group KMFDM, featuring ominous lyrics such as "I’m your nightmare coming true, I am your worst enemy" and "Stray bullet, from the barrel of love." The small town campus, housing both a middle school and high school, is located 40 miles northwest of Des Moines. Investigators have also found other photos Butler posted posing with firearms, according to an official cited by the Associated Press. Sisters Yesenia Roeder and Khamya Hall, both 17, said alongside their mother, Alita, that Butler was bullied relentlessly since elementary school. Butler's sister too, it was reported, started getting picked on. His parents brought it up with the school. It remains unclear if the school acted upon parents' complaints over bullying. "He was hurting. He got tired. He got tired of the bullying. He got tired of the harassment," Yesenia Roeder Hall, 17, told the Associated Press. "Was it a smart idea to shoot up the school? No. God, no." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Dylan Butler? Iowa school shooter with 'I’m your nightmare coming true' sentiment

Supporting African development and tackling the dangers posed by artificial intelligence (AI) will be two key themes for Italy during its one-year presidency of the G7, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Thursday.

Giorgia Meloni: AI, Africa to be key G7 issue for Italy

In yet another school shooting in the US, a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader while five others were left injured in the&nbsp;state of Iowa, media reports said. Among the injured were four students and a school administrator. The incident took place at Perry High School in the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 4) local time.&nbsp;The suspect teenager also succumbed to self-inflicted injuries during the gunfire, reports said citing officials.

At a news conference following the horrific incident, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Mitch Mortvedt said that the suspect teenager was identified as Dylan Butler.&nbsp;The motive behind the act is still unclear and authorities are investigating the matter.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-indian-origin-man-awarded-9-months-of-jail-term-for-masturbating-in-front-of-woman-on-london-train-676694">UK: Indian-origin man awarded 9 months of jail term for masturbating in front of woman on London train</a>

Moreover, the identities of the victims, except the injured school administrator, in the shooting have&nbsp;also not been revealed. The administrator was identified by Easton Valley Community School District as the principal at Perry High School, Dan Marburger.&nbsp;

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Thursday was when the winter break at the school ended and the second semester kicked off. &nbsp;The incident took place days ahead of the Iowa Republican presidential caucuses which is due to be held on January 15, 2024.&nbsp;

<h2>'Last straw'</h2>

Media reports quoted&nbsp;two 17-year-old siblings, Yesenia Roeder and Khamya Hall,&nbsp;as saying that the shooter was subjected to bullying at the school along with his younger sister.&nbsp;The students alleged that the school officials failed to act on the matter and that acted as the “last straw” for&nbsp;Butler.

Though the victims were hit by gunshots, the police authorities also found, what is being dubbed as a “rudimentary” improvised explosive.&nbsp;

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However, the agents with the state fire marshal and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives rendered the device "safe".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In yet another school shooting in the US, a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader while five others were left injured in the state of Iowa, media reports said.

In yet another school shooting in the US, a 17-year-old teenager killed a sixth grader while five others were left injured in the state of Iowa, media reports said. Among the injured were four students and a school administrator. The incident took place at Perry High School in the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 4) local time. The suspect teenager also succumbed to self-inflicted injuries during the gunfire, reports said citing officials. At a news conference following the horrific incident, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Mitch Mortvedt said that the suspect teenager was identified as Dylan Butler. The motive behind the act is still unclear and authorities are investigating the matter. Also Read | UK: Indian-origin man awarded 9 months of jail term for masturbating in front of woman on London train Moreover, the identities of the victims, except the injured school administrator, in the shooting have also not been revealed. The administrator was identified by Easton Valley Community School District as the principal at Perry High School, Dan Marburger. Also Read | UK mathematicians devise approach for guaranteed lottery win by purchasing just 27 tickets Thursday was when the winter break at the school ended and the second semester kicked off. The incident took place days ahead of the Iowa Republican presidential caucuses which is due to be held on January 15, 2024. 'Last straw' Media reports quoted two 17-year-old siblings, Yesenia Roeder and Khamya Hall, as saying that the shooter was subjected to bullying at the school along with his younger sister. The students alleged that the school officials failed to act on the matter and that acted as the “last straw” for Butler. Though the victims were hit by gunshots, the police authorities also found, what is being dubbed as a “rudimentary” improvised explosive. Watch | Gravitas | What the fossils of the giant predator worms 'terror beasts' reveal × However, the agents with the state fire marshal and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives rendered the device "safe". (With inputs from agencies)

Iowa high school shooting: Student kills sixth grader, injures five others

Russian city of Belgorod was hit by another round of Ukrainian shelling late Thursday. Now, the strike came hours after schools in the region were orders to extend holiday closure due to the risk of more attacks.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian shelling hits Belgorod following Moscow’s aerial attacks

In a crucial case that would determine the permanent disqualification of a number of prominent politicians, including former prime ministers Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan, the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday postponed making a decision. The decision is anticipated to settle the dispute about the duration of disqualification under Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution and the Elections Act of 2017 once and for all.

Pakistan Supreme Court reserves verdict in lifetime disqualification case

The US military on Thursday struck a base in eastern Baghdad used by Iran-backed armed groups, killing a commander who had conducted attacks on American forces in Iraq and Syria, the Pentagon said.

US strike kills pro-Iran commander in Iraq, Pentagon says

In one of the most serious military escalations between the North and South Korea in recent history, North Korea fired over 200 artillery shells on Friday, sparking tensions between the neighbours and forcing South Korea to evacuate two of its island towns.

North Korea fires 200 artillery shells; South Korea evacuates 2 border islands

India emerges as a global investment hotspot, with a notable influx of foreign direct investment in late 2023. The country is poised to extend its momentum into 2024. Despite global uncertainties, deputy managing director & joint CEO of SBI Mutual Fund, DP Singh, shares insights on India's positive investment outlook for the year ahead.

India's Foreign Capital inflows rise

The past week saw a targeted airstrike deep within Lebanon's territory. The attack, carried out in the capital's southern region, killed top Hamas deputy Saleh Al-Arouri. Is this an indication of the war escalating between Israel and Lebanon?

Top Hamas leader killed in targeted strike in Beirut

Britney Spears has no plans to return to the music industry. After the 13-year-old conservatorship ended, the one thing that Spears' millions of fans had been waiting for was when she would release her new music.

Britney Spears says she would `never return to music industry`

Twenty-one-year-old Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, the youngest lawmaker in New Zealand in 170 years, performed haka in her parliament speech last month. The video of this cultural performance has resurfaced on the internet and is going viral.

Twenty-one-year-old Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, the youngest lawmaker in New Zealand in 170 years, performed haka in her parliament speech last month. The video of this cultural performance has resurfaced on the internet and is going viral. In her maiden speech, Maipi-Clarke said, "I will die for you ... but I will [also] live for you." “I truly feel like I’ve already said my maiden speech outside the steps of Parliament last year, for the 50th anniversary of Te Petihana," she said, adding she dedicated that speech to her grandparents. "However, this speech today ... is dedicated to all our children," she told parliament in December. At the opening of the speech, she performed Māori haka, the war dance of the Māori people in New Zealand. Here's a look at the video: 🚨🚨⚡ 🇳🇿In a groundbreaking moment in New Zealand's political landscape, 21-year-old Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke delivered a captivating maiden speech that echoed the strength of her heritage and challenged the status quo. Maipi-Clarke, the youngest lawmaker in 170… pic.twitter.com/PSDiWa5jkD — Fahad_ Heaven™ (The Wise) 🇵🇸 (@Fahad_Heaven) January 5, 2024 × Who is Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke? Born in 2002, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke has been representing the Te Pāti Māori also known as the Māori Party as an MP since last year's New Zealand general election. She is the youngest lawmaker since James Stuart, who was elected in 1853 at the age of 20. Her grandfather, Taitimu Maipi, was a member of the Māori activist group Nga Tamatoa. According to a report by the NZ Herald, her great, great, great grandfather was New Zealand's first Māori minister in parliament. “Hooki mai too mokopuna kia koe. My great x4 grandfather, Wiremu Katene, first Maaori Minister in Parliament. My first stop taaku kaitiaki i roto i teenei whare,” she said in a post on Instagram last year.

Watch: New Zealand's youngest MP in 170 yrs performs Māori haka in parliament speech

India's economic stability boosts global capital inflows

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity.

He said that the migrants, who were found on Wednesday, were abandoned by their kidnappers in a parking lot in a shopping center in the northern city of Reynosa in the state of Tamaulipas.

"Because there was a strong deployment (from Mexican authorities), they decided to free them, safe and sound," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in his morning press conference.

The case has highlighted the risks faced by the hundreds of thousands of migrants who cross through Mexico en route to the U.S. border each year, who are targets of extortion and kidnapping by powerful criminal groups.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-calls-for-more-production-of-missile-launchers-amid-us-south-korea-wargames-676745">Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames</a>

Human rights activists have been warning for months about an escalating kidnapping crisis in Reynosa, where last year Reuters documented a pattern of kidnappings - and at times sexual assault - of migrants and asylum seekers.

The 32 migrants were abducted on Saturday from a commercial bus that had departed the northern city of Monterrey for Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas, according to Mexican officials. They were forced off the bus while traveling through Reynosa and whisked away in cars by armed men, officials added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/indonesia-bandung-train-collision-three-dead-on-java-island-several-others-injured-676750">Indonesia Bandung train collision: Three dead on Java Island, several others injured</a>

In a separate case, authorities in the border state of Sonora said on Thursday they had rescued around 20 migrants, many also kidnapped off busses.

<h2>Investigation opened&nbsp;</h2>

The group kidnapped in Reynosa was discovered after an anonymous caller tipped off authorities to their whereabouts, the state security agency's spokesman told Reuters.

The 32 migrants ranged in age from a 71-year-old man to a 1-year-old baby girl, with a total of 11 minors, he said, adding 26 were from Venezuela and six from Honduras.

The state attorney general's office said the migrants had given their testimonies and that the office has opened an investigation. No one has been arrested so far, Cuellar said.

Late on Thursday, Mexico's national migration institute said it would grant the migrants humanitarian visas.

A record number of migrants traveled across Central America and Mexico in 2023 aiming to reach the United States, fleeing poverty, violence, climate change and conflict.

Earlier this week, a 4,000-person caravan traveling through southern Mexico dispersed after leaders said migration authorities had promised to provide travel permits.

But the caravan's leader, Luis Garcia, said in a statement on Thursday that some migrants were "abandoned on the street" by authorities.

Mexico's migration institute did not respond to a request for comment.

<h2>"So scared"</h2>

The mass kidnapping has sparked increased fear among migrants in Mexico.

Diego Vargas, 25, of Colombia, said that just after Christmas, he and his wife landed a coveted appointment on a U.S. government app called CBP One, allowing them to approach a port of entry and cross into the United States legally.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-foreign-ministry-issues-warning-to-houthis-us-joe-biden-urges-to-strike-houthis-wion-676747">UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION</a>

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The appointment is scheduled at the Matamoros crossing in mid-January, he said.

But after learning of the kidnapping, he says he and his wife are faced with an impossible choice: risk their lives traveling on the same highway, or return to their country, where he says they fled death threats by a paramilitary group.

"We're so scared to try to reach the border," he said.

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity.

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity. He said that the migrants, who were found on Wednesday, were abandoned by their kidnappers in a parking lot in a shopping center in the northern city of Reynosa in the state of Tamaulipas. "Because there was a strong deployment (from Mexican authorities), they decided to free them, safe and sound," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in his morning press conference. The case has highlighted the risks faced by the hundreds of thousands of migrants who cross through Mexico en route to the U.S. border each year, who are targets of extortion and kidnapping by powerful criminal groups. Also Read | Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames Human rights activists have been warning for months about an escalating kidnapping crisis in Reynosa, where last year Reuters documented a pattern of kidnappings - and at times sexual assault - of migrants and asylum seekers. The 32 migrants were abducted on Saturday from a commercial bus that had departed the northern city of Monterrey for Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas, according to Mexican officials. They were forced off the bus while traveling through Reynosa and whisked away in cars by armed men, officials added. Indonesia Bandung train collision: Three dead on Java Island, several others injured In a separate case, authorities in the border state of Sonora said on Thursday they had rescued around 20 migrants, many also kidnapped off busses. Investigation opened The group kidnapped in Reynosa was discovered after an anonymous caller tipped off authorities to their whereabouts, the state security agency's spokesman told Reuters. The 32 migrants ranged in age from a 71-year-old man to a 1-year-old baby girl, with a total of 11 minors, he said, adding 26 were from Venezuela and six from Honduras. The state attorney general's office said the migrants had given their testimonies and that the office has opened an investigation. No one has been arrested so far, Cuellar said. Late on Thursday, Mexico's national migration institute said it would grant the migrants humanitarian visas. A record number of migrants traveled across Central America and Mexico in 2023 aiming to reach the United States, fleeing poverty, violence, climate change and conflict. Earlier this week, a 4,000-person caravan traveling through southern Mexico dispersed after leaders said migration authorities had promised to provide travel permits. But the caravan's leader, Luis Garcia, said in a statement on Thursday that some migrants were "abandoned on the street" by authorities. Mexico's migration institute did not respond to a request for comment. "So scared" The mass kidnapping has sparked increased fear among migrants in Mexico. Diego Vargas, 25, of Colombia, said that just after Christmas, he and his wife landed a coveted appointment on a U.S. government app called CBP One, allowing them to approach a port of entry and cross into the United States legally. Watch | UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION × The appointment is scheduled at the Matamoros crossing in mid-January, he said. But after learning of the kidnapping, he says he and his wife are faced with an impossible choice: risk their lives traveling on the same highway, or return to their country, where he says they fled death threats by a paramilitary group. "We're so scared to try to reach the border," he said.

Armed men kidnapped 32 migrants in Mexico for extortion, president says

A Houthi drone boat packed with explosives detonated in the Red Sea on Thursday but failed to cause any damage or casualties, the US&nbsp;Navy said, as the Yemen-based group continued its attacks in defiance of international calls to stop.

The latest attack came one day after 12 countries including the US&nbsp;Britain and Japan issued a joint statement cautioning the Houthis of unspecified "consequences" unless it halts its attacks, in what one US&nbsp;official on Wednesday suggested was a final warning.

The Iran-aligned Houthis, who control much of Yemen, have launched wave after wave of exploding drones and missiles at commercial vessels since Nov. 19, trying to inflict a cost in what they say is a protest against Israel's military operations in Gaza.

The Houthi campaign has been extraordinarily disruptive to international shipping, causing some companies to suspend transits through the Red Sea and instead take the much longer, costlier journey around Africa.

Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, who leads US&nbsp;Naval forces in the Middle East, told reporters on Thursday that the Houthi exploding boat drove out about 50 miles (80.47 kilometres) into the Red Sea and then detonated in dense shipping lanes.

"It came within a couple of miles of ships operating in the area — merchant ships and U.S. Navy ships — and we all watched as it exploded," Cooper told reporters, adding the target of the attack was not clear.

Cooper said there have now been 25 attacks by the Houthis against merchant vessels transiting the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and added "there are no signs that their irresponsible behaviour is abating."

The repeated Houthi attacks have increased pressure on President Joe Biden to respond militarily, something his administration has been reluctant to do out of fear of escalating already soaring regional tensions.

Retired four-star Marine general Frank McKenzie, who led US&nbsp;forces in the Middle East until retiring in 2022, said the Biden administration's response to attacks in the Red Sea and against US&nbsp;troops at bases in Iraq and Syria has been too "tentative" and "unfocused."

"To reset deterrence, we must apply violence that Tehran understands," McKenzie wrote in an Op-Ed published on Thursday in the Wall Street Journal.

The United States and other countries last month launched Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect civilian vessels, which Cooper said now included contributions from 22 countries. So far, Cooper said US&nbsp;warships and US&nbsp;partners have shot down two cruise missiles, six anti-ship ballistic missiles and 11 drones.

On Sunday, US&nbsp;warships sank three Houthi speed boats to protect a commercial vessel from being hijacked.

A senior Biden administration official told reporters on Wednesday "if that happened again, we would probably do the exact same thing." The same official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the 12-nation statement to the Houthis was very clear.

"I would not anticipate another warning," the official said.

At the United Nations, a US&nbsp;representative told the U.N. Security Council the United States believed the situation in the Red Sea had reached an "inflection point."

Asked whether Operation Prosperity Guardian might target Houthi positions with strikes to prevent them from attacking ships, Cooper said that the 22-nation coalition was purely defensive in nature.

"Anything that happens outside of the defensive aspect of this operation is a completely different operation," he said.

The Houthis have said their attacks on commercial shipping target vessels with Israeli links or were sailing to Israel.

But many vessels have had no Israeli connection and were not bound for Israeli ports, and major shipping lines have suspended their operations through the Red Sea.

Cooper said the ships that have been attacked have direct connections to 55 countries.

"So regardless of the vessel's company ownership or its destination, these Houthi attacks are for sure destabilizing and contrary to international law and clearly … must stop immediately," Cooper said.

A Houthi drone boat packed with explosives detonated in the Red Sea on Thursday but failed to cause any damage or casualties, the US Navy said, as the Yemen-based group continued its attacks in defiance of international calls to stop.

A Houthi drone boat packed with explosives detonated in the Red Sea on Thursday but failed to cause any damage or casualties, the US Navy said, as the Yemen-based group continued its attacks in defiance of international calls to stop. The latest attack came one day after 12 countries including the US Britain and Japan issued a joint statement cautioning the Houthis of unspecified "consequences" unless it halts its attacks, in what one US official on Wednesday suggested was a final warning. The Iran-aligned Houthis, who control much of Yemen, have launched wave after wave of exploding drones and missiles at commercial vessels since Nov. 19, trying to inflict a cost in what they say is a protest against Israel's military operations in Gaza. The Houthi campaign has been extraordinarily disruptive to international shipping, causing some companies to suspend transits through the Red Sea and instead take the much longer, costlier journey around Africa. Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, who leads US Naval forces in the Middle East, told reporters on Thursday that the Houthi exploding boat drove out about 50 miles (80.47 kilometres) into the Red Sea and then detonated in dense shipping lanes. "It came within a couple of miles of ships operating in the area — merchant ships and U.S. Navy ships — and we all watched as it exploded," Cooper told reporters, adding the target of the attack was not clear. Cooper said there have now been 25 attacks by the Houthis against merchant vessels transiting the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and added "there are no signs that their irresponsible behaviour is abating." The repeated Houthi attacks have increased pressure on President Joe Biden to respond militarily, something his administration has been reluctant to do out of fear of escalating already soaring regional tensions. Retired four-star Marine general Frank McKenzie, who led US forces in the Middle East until retiring in 2022, said the Biden administration's response to attacks in the Red Sea and against US troops at bases in Iraq and Syria has been too "tentative" and "unfocused." "To reset deterrence, we must apply violence that Tehran understands," McKenzie wrote in an Op-Ed published on Thursday in the Wall Street Journal. The United States and other countries last month launched Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect civilian vessels, which Cooper said now included contributions from 22 countries. So far, Cooper said US warships and US partners have shot down two cruise missiles, six anti-ship ballistic missiles and 11 drones. On Sunday, US warships sank three Houthi speed boats to protect a commercial vessel from being hijacked. A senior Biden administration official told reporters on Wednesday "if that happened again, we would probably do the exact same thing." The same official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the 12-nation statement to the Houthis was very clear. "I would not anticipate another warning," the official said. At the United Nations, a US representative told the U.N. Security Council the United States believed the situation in the Red Sea had reached an "inflection point." Asked whether Operation Prosperity Guardian might target Houthi positions with strikes to prevent them from attacking ships, Cooper said that the 22-nation coalition was purely defensive in nature. "Anything that happens outside of the defensive aspect of this operation is a completely different operation," he said. The Houthis have said their attacks on commercial shipping target vessels with Israeli links or were sailing to Israel. But many vessels have had no Israeli connection and were not bound for Israeli ports, and major shipping lines have suspended their operations through the Red Sea. Cooper said the ships that have been attacked have direct connections to 55 countries. "So regardless of the vessel's company ownership or its destination, these Houthi attacks are for sure destabilizing and contrary to international law and clearly … must stop immediately," Cooper said.

Houthi drone boat detonates in Red Sea a day after US warning

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